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(Reference retrieved automatically from SciELO through information on FAPESP grant and its corresponding number as mentioned in the publication by the authors.)

Characterization of innate immune activity in Phrynops geoffroanus (Testudines: Chelidae)

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Author(s):
Bruno O. Ferronato [1] ; Mark E. Merchant [2] ; Thiago S. Marques [1] ; Luciano M. Verdade [1]
Total Authors: 4
Affiliation:
[1] Univ Sao Paulo, ESALQ, Dept Ciencias Biol, Anim Ecol Lab, BR-13418900 Sao Paulo - Brazil
[2] McNeese State Univ, Dept Chem, Lake Charles, LA 70609 - USA
Total Affiliations: 2
Document type: Journal article
Source: Zoologia; v. 26, n. 4, p. 747-752, 2009-12-00.
Abstract

The innate immune activity of the freshwater turtle Phrynops geoffroanus (Schweigger, 1812) was investigated, using a sheep-red-blood cell hemolysis assay. The time- and concentration-dependent hemolytic activity of the turtle plasma was low compared to that reported for other reptiles. However the plasma of P. geoffroanus exhibited higher activity at elevated temperatures, resulting in temperature-dependent hemolysis. The sensitivity of turtle plasma to temperature could be interpreted as a mechanism by which freshwater turtles use basking behavior to elevate body temperature, thus enhancing the innate immune response. However, we cannot discard the possibility that environmental contaminants could be affecting the turtle's immune response, since the animals in this investigation were captured in a polluted watercourse. (AU)